THE LATEST stage in the transformation of a Forest play area has been completed by a group of volunteers.

Parents, children, local people and pupils from Lakers School helped install a willow play structure at Crow's Ash, Berry Hill.

They were assisted by experts from local company The Willowbank who work around the country on installing willow structures.

Sue Reddan, who is one of the volunteers, said: "We were looking for something different and it was suggested we go for willow.

"The kids will be able to play inside, it will give shelter and it's a living thing."

Local people were successful in applying for a grant of £2,000 from the Forest of Dean Council for the project.

Mrs Reddan added: "Not very long ago the field was a toilet for dogs but it has been changed completely.

"We've also had a lot of help from local companies like Walford Timber, Travis Perkins and, of course, the Willow Bank."

Carine Van Gestel of The Willow Bank said: "We work all over the country so it has been great to work on a community project just down the road.

"The willow is a living plant and will provide many benefits including being a habitat."

Pictured with Mark Topping and Carine Van Gestel of The Willow Bank are Sue Reddan, Mo Jones, Nicola Powles, Rachael Rowles and Karen Marchant.

Among the other volunteers who helped plant the willow were Eric and Mandy Reddan, Andrew and Cilla Blackwell, Lucy Williams, Kelly Cotton, Spencer Rowles and students of Lakers School.

The new area will be officially opened by Berry Hill district councillor Tim Gwilliam on Easter Saturday, March 30.